I was haing a discussion with my Dad yesterday about the Prius

He says the electric motor stays on all the time for when you need/want the extra kick

I said no the electric motor cuts off at a certain speed and the petrol does the work after that.

don't like the Prius personally as its too automatic but just what are the facts and who is right?

It will run on electric power at low speeds and with gentle accelleration.

If you accellerate harder or go above a certain speed the petrol engine will take over and the electric motor is idle.

If you floor it then the electric engine will come in for an extra boost.

All you need to know is.. it's rubbish..

HTH.

All you need to know is.. it's rubbish..

HTH.

Indeed, in real world driving it isn't even that good on fuel.

Indeed, in real world driving it isn't even that good on fuel.

And it's ugly, and is doing far more damage to the planet than a normal car. :thumbdwn:

Although did you see 5th gear acouple of weeks ago were Tiff drove one? they mentioned some fad in America where people are competing to get the highest mpg figure, and I'm sure they mentioned getting 100mpg out of a prius.. :eek:

That must be some pretty boring driving... think I'd rather walk.

Hmmm.

4 years old and it needs a new battery.

That will be £2000 and they can't dispose of the old one. Very Ecological

oh no I'm not planning on buying one